Media Release: More people enjoying seafood than ever before, says research

BRITS are eating more fish and shellfish than ever before, according to new research from industry body Seafish.

Consumption of shellfish has risen by eight percent since 2004 and the number of people eating oil-rich fish, which is packed full of omega 3, has risen by ten per cent.

Perhaps surprisingly, children are increasingly becoming fish fans, with a 23 per cent rise in consumption by kids under six and 11 per cent more under-16s now eating seafood on a regular basis.

However, despite these positive trends, only 28 per cent of people overall eat fish twice a week, as recommended by the Food Standards Agency.

The news has been welcomed by many in the industry, including the Scottish Shellfish Marketing Group (SSMG), the UK’s premier producer of finest quality shellfish who recently reported a 20 per cent boom in mussel sales.

Michael Laurenson, SSMG chair, said: “The popularity of shellfish, mussels in particular, has seen something of a revolution, cooking up a storm not only in many top restaurants but also making their way into households as well.

“Consumers are increasingly recognising something we have always known – fresh Scottish shellfish is some of the finest and most natural produce in the world.”

The new research has been revealed to mark the Seafood Week 2007 which runs from 5-12 October. Restaurants, bars, schools, fish and chip shops, supermarkets and fishmongers across the country will be celebrating with special offers and events.

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